Radiosensitivity in Plants : I. Relation between the water content of some crop seeds and their sensitivity to different doses of X-rays and γ-rays

Abstract

1. Relationship between the water content of dormant seeds of several plants and their sensitivity to X-rays and γ-rays was studied. 2. Sensitivity of dormant seeds to various radiations was at a minimum when they contained from about 12 to 18% water, except for rape seeds. 3. Resistance of dormant rape seeds to T-rays was at a maximum when they contained from 5 to 8 % water. 4. In general, sensitivity of dormant seeds of various plants to radiation is increased by either a low or a high water content.